Job Description

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team -you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway
Whether you're just leaving school, looking for a fresh start, or returning to work after some time away, we'd love to hear from you. We are looking for individuals who may just be starting out in their career, have transferable skills or looking to progress - we're focused on finding people with the potential to grow.
Our Maintenance teams work outdoors in all conditions, maintaining and improving a railway that's been serving the nation for over 200 years. From repairing tracks and maintaining power systems to fixing bridges and managing overgrown vegetation - every task matters, and so does every team member. Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do.
If you're ready to play a vital role in keeping Britain moving and delivering the moments that matter, your journey starts here. Join us today.
Brief Description
We are inviting expressions of interest for our Operative, Technician and Team Leader roles within Maintenance.
As an Operative you'll help keep our nation moving every single day. A critical part of the work we do is the daily upkeep of the rail network. You'll work in a small team, supporting essential maintenance to keep the railway running safely and smoothly for passengers and freight users.
As a Technician you'll provide the essential link between the team and the Team Leader to support organising and motivating the team, to deliver essential maintenance to keep the railway running safely and smoothly for passengers and freight users, whilst developing your management skills.
As a Team Leader you will be responsible for directing, organising, and motivating a high performing team. From inspection and faulting through to maintenance and renewal, you will play an active role. Ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and to the highest standards will be a key responsibility, with safety as a priority
What can you bring to the team
While the responsibilities may differ across roles, we're looking for individuals who show strong potential and bring the following qualities:
A full UK driving licence and willingness to drive for business needs
Strong problem-solving abilities
Clear and effective communication skills
A collaborative approach and the ability to work well in a team
A commitment to safety in everything you do
Flexibility to work a range of shift patterns, including days, evenings, and weekends
The ability to undertake manual work, outdoors in all weather conditions
Willingness to undergo a medical assessment and drug and alcohol testing as part of the recruitment process and during employment (a vital safety requirement)
If you're ready to take on a rewarding challenge and help keep Britain's railway running safely and smoothly, we want to hear from you!
About the role (External)
What's in it for me?
A fresh start - full on the job training will be provided
Development in a range of practical trades and skills to get you to the next career level; many maintenance workers progress to management roles - there's no stopping you at Network Rail
Great pension plus the chance to join Network Rail's leading defined contribution pension scheme after five years' service
75% discount on leisure rail travel for you and your family
Flexible annual leave
Extra earning potential: 35-hour week with overtime opportunities (there may be a requirement to work on call)
How to apply (External)
This is an expression of interest for Operative, Technician and Team Leader roles.
Our pay and benefits for front line maintenance varies depending on experience and technical competencies held
Starting Salary for Operatives 31,444
Starting Salary for Technicians 37,073
Starting Salary for Team Leaders 43,997
As shift working is required, including evenings, nights, public holidays and weekends, there are shift allowances/premiums on top of the above basic salaries. There is also some on call required, the regularity is agreed locally, and an additional allowance apply.
If you are excited about the opportunity to join Network Rail, please submit your expression of interest by 30th June 2025.
You will be asked some questions that are a minimum required to work as an Operative, Technician or Team Leader. We will also ask you your preferred locations and disciplines.
Should you meet the minimum requirement, you will be invited to an assessment centre. The assessment centre will include a competency-based interview, and a number of exercises to gauge your level of technical ability
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments .
We're proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. You can visit for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please let us know.
All prospective candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5-year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.